The Federal Government and relevant democratic agencies have been urged to uphold the rule of law by strengthening democratic institutions, implementing all electoral and judicial constitutional provisions.

The calls were made separately by a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Ngozi Olehi; and the General Overseer of the Charismatic Renewal Ministries Inc./ National Secretary of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Dr Cosmas Ilechukwu during the latter’s 70th birthday anniversary, thanksgiving and presentation of his book, “In Conversation with Myself,” held in Owerri.

Speaking on the leadership issues, Olehi, who was a governorship candidate in Imo state, attributed bad governance in the country to persistent electoral fraud.

According to him, this has pushed Nigerians to massive poverty.

He said: “There are wheelbarrow pushers today who would have been doctors if the economy was vibrant, and they went to school. We need to rise from the ashes we have gotten to. Switzerland has no natural resources, but its economy is strong.

“We need to develop strong institutions, invest in human capital and promote the rule of law. Acquiring the right knowledge and capacity development are also critical.

“Some Nigerians are collaborative and tolerant of bad leaders. That is why there is perpetuation of corruption”.

There is a need to have a collective resolve to reject their corrupt money.”

The celebrant, Ilechukwu, regretted that Nigeria was behind because President Bola Tinubu, allegedly did not listen to the people’s advice, stressing that he would not waste his time to advise the president.

He condemned the alleged nepotism and bigotry being promoted by the Federal Government in its appointments.

The cleric urged Nigerians to pray for the leaders to govern in consideration of the rule of law and the constitution.

The ceremony was attended by prominent clerics, including the national president of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Dr. Francis Wale Oke and other bishops.

Oke, on his part, commended Ilechukwu for his humility and the height he has attained in the country.

Other academics who contributed to the discourse included, Professors Bernard Nwoke (a former acting Vice Chancellor of the Imo State University); and Protus Uzoma.

They called for the entrenchment of strong institutions, good leadership and a desirable judicial system that supports democracy.